Can a section 501(c)(3) organization invite a political candidate to speak at an organization event for reasons other than his or her candidacy for public office?
If an organization invites a candidate to speak in a non-candidate capacity, it must ensure that:
a. The individual is chosen to speak solely for reasons other than candidacy for public office;
b. The individual speaks only in a non-candidate capacity;
c. Neither the candidate nor any representative of the organization makes any mention of the individual's candidacy or the election;
d. No campaign activity occurs in connection with the candidate's attendance;
e. The organization maintains a nonpartisan atmosphere on the premises or at the event where the candidate is present; and
f. The organization clearly indicates the capacity in which the candidate is appearing and does not mention the individual¡¯s political candidacy or the upcoming election in the communications announcing the candidate¡¯s attendance at the event.